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Commentary on The Song of Solomon

Superscription. Like many Psalms, the book begins with background information. Song of Songs: Hebrew for “best song.” Which is Solomon's is more likely the editor's attempt to link the book with Solomon rather than proof of its authorship.

The woman speaks of love. Ancient Near Eastern cultures used many sweet, strong scents on the body as well as in religious ceremonies. Throughout the
book, such aromas are compared to the scent of the lovers' bodies.

Black and beautiful: The woman maintains that her sun-darkened skin is beautiful. The verses imply an expectation that women have fair skin, perhaps
reflecting an urban perspective. Kedar: A mountain range, the name of which means “black.” Mother's sons: Mothers rather than fathers are mentioned in the book, suggesting a strong female perspective. Vineyards throughout the book are connected with sexuality. The first mention is literal: Her brothers required her to work outside.
The second reference is metaphorical:
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She has not been chaste.

Veiled: Veiling practices in ancient Israel are difficult to reconstruct. In Gen 38
, a prostitute wears a veil, and Gen 29.21–25
may imply that brides wore face coverings. The reference here may be metaphorical: Why should she have difficulty seeing
him?

This statement, issued as a lesson for others, either suggests the danger of love or requests that the lovers' intimacy not
be interrupted. Daughters of Jerusalem refers to the young women of the city. In the book, their participation advances the dialogue.